Serve Up a Stuffed Stocking

Christmas stockings are not just for children. If stuffed with the best items, they can be great fun for grown-ups too. I remember mine from childhood very well. My sister and I both had stockings that we colored way before we could stay in the lines. The older I became, my stocking was filled with more and more practical gifts each Christmas. As a teenager, it turned into a plethora of toiletries like toothpaste and cotton swabs. Now, with stockings hanging on my own mantel, stuffing them with fun little things is one of my favorite traditions.

After three emails last week asking for Christmas gift suggestions, I thought I’d share my list of can’t-live-without tools that will create a cook’s dream stocking. They are small in size but make a big difference in the kitchen.

RSVP Spice Measuring Spoons

Microplane Stainless Steel Zester (without the handle)

Kuhn Rikon Corn Zipper

Oxo Mini Angled Measuring Cup

Joyce Chen Kitchen Shears

Progressive International Magnetic Measuring Spoons

Jar Pop jar opener

Lemon Squeezer

Oxo Bag Cinch

Messermeister Pro Serrated Swivel Peeler

Small offset spatula

Peugeot salt and pepper grinders

Cork Pops Original Wine Bottle Opener

The one item I don’t own, but would love to find in my stocking (hint for Santa…) is a Thermapen thermometer.

I always get asked where I shop for items in my own kitchen. I teach a lot of classes at my favorite shop, The Cook's Warehouse in Atlanta. The store has every kitchen tool you can imagine, as well as a deal on shipping for the holidays.